French insect‑ingredient producer Innovafeed, specialised in Hermetia illucens‑based proteins, oils and functional ingredients for aquaculture, pet food and agriculture, has entered a new stage of its development after completing its industrial scale‑up and securing €51 million to accelerate commercial deployment.
The company reports that its production unit in Nesle, in northern France, has reached full industrial maturity, delivering more than 15,000 tonnes of protein and oil over the past three years. During this period, Innovafeed scaled production tenfold and reduced manufacturing costs sevenfold, positioning its capacity at three times that of its closest global competitor. Revenues have doubled annually, driven by partnerships around the Hilucia™ product range. The company also highlights a 70–90% reduction in carbon emissions through its circular industrial symbiosis model.
As Innovafeed shifts from industrialisation to commercial expansion, it is reorganising its operations. Zootechnical R&D activities will be consolidated at the Nesle site, a transition that includes a planned reduction of 60 positions, primarily affecting the Gouzeaucourt facility. The company states the process will be carried out with dedicated support and in dialogue with employee representatives.
The new funding will enable Innovafeed to:
- Accelerate commercial growth of Hilucia™, especially in aquaculture and pet food.
- Invest in industrial equipment to expand applications and product offerings.
- Optimise its industrial asset base to enhance performance and capacity
